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Peloton 'disappointed' that some viewers 'misinterpreted' bike ad

At-home fitness equipment company Peloton responded Wednesday to criticism that its holiday ad is sexist, saying some viewers have "misinterpreted" the commercial's message.

The ad, titled "The Gift that Gives Back,” features a woman showing a video diary to her male partner detailing the year she spent using the Peloton that he gave her.

Critics of the ad who said it's sexist argued it gives the impression that the male partner wanted the woman to lose weight.

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The ad first ran on Nov. 4 but recently went viral on Twitter amid the backlash.

“We constantly hear from our members how their lives have been meaningfully and positively impacted after purchasing or being gifted a Peloton Bike or Tread, often in ways that surprise them,” a Peloton spokesperson told CNBC in an email.

“Our holiday spot was created to celebrate that fitness and wellness journey," the spokesperson continued. "While we’re disappointed in how some have misinterpreted this commercial, we are encouraged by — and grateful for — the outpouring of support we’ve received from those who understand what we were trying to communicate.”

In early afternoon trading Wednesday, shares of Peloton were down around 4 percent for the day.

Peloton did not immediately respond to a request for comment from The Hill.